Download - Beef and Dairy 2015
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A Special Supplement to The Standard, Waukon, IA
&
Dairy
2015&Beef
Whats Inside... De-Su Holsteins Till-Hill Cattle Hanson Hilltop Farms Stanley Martins Fleckvieh cattle Pioneer dairyman Virgil Herman Beef & Dairy in Allamakee County & More
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 2 JUNE 10, 2015
Congratulations to De-Su Holsteins and Hanson Hilltop Farms for being two of
this years featured stories.
Dairy ProDucers, Thank you for providing safe, healthy products
for our families, and the world.
Your Partner in animal nutrition www.fce.coop | 800-450-7733 | /townandcountrystore | 800-450-7733 | /townandcountrystore
A Family Affair: De-Su Holsteins produces top Holsteins year after yearby Lissa Blake
The better care you take of your herd, the better care theyll take of you.
Thats the philosophy behind the family dairy operation at De-Su Holsteins in rural New Albin.
And for around 50 years, that philosophy has been paying off for the Dean and Sue Meyer family.
Dean and Sue, who were married in 1969, started out with 120 acres on the farm where they still live today. We started out with ve cows being milked with buckets in a 16-stanchion barn, said Dean, who also hauled milk on the side.
By the early 70s, the Meyers expanded by installing Harvestore silos and adding to the barn, for a total of 56 stanchions.
When they added additional tie stalls to their barn in the
1980s, increasing their facility capacity to accommodate 73 cows at that time, the Meyers thought it would be their last expansion. But then their son, Darin, a 1992 Kee High School graduate, expressed an interest in carrying on his familys legacy.
Instead of attending college, Darin jokes that he went to the school of hard knocks. I have no regrets, said Darin, who today works as the farms general manager.
Darins brother, Dustin, oversees the farms crop work, and his sister, Shannon Schuttemeyer, does all the bookkeeping. Another of Dean and Sues daughters, Stacie, works as a nurse at Gundersen Clinic.
Im just the gap ller. I do whatever needs to be done, said Dean of his current role in
De-Su...Continued on page 17
The Meyer family of rural New Albin owns and operates De-Su Holsteins, a dairy facility that has grown from a start of ve cows being milked with buckets on a 120-acre farm to the present-day operation of three farms and the milking of 1,500 cows during three eight-hour shifts each day.
Pictured above, left to right, are Darin, Dean, Sue and Dustin Meyer. Photo by Lissa Blake.
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 3
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Beef and Dairy in Allamakee County strongly supported by their respective producer-member organizationsby David M. Johnson
Living in a community where
the countryside is dotted with farms, we may often take an agricultural landscape for granted. Most people living in Allamakee County are either farming, only recently removed from that environment or are employed in businesses closely involved with farming.
The two primary farming operations that have sustained themselves for a long period of time within Allamakee County are beef and dairy. Between the dairy barns and parlors and beef cows pasturing along the many county roads, it is dif cult not to see evidence of either one of these farming practices.
Nationally, with some 70 different breeds of cattle, there are 29.7 million beef cows and 915,000 producers, with Iowa home to 20,000 beef producers and 5,368 feedlots, managing 920,000 cows. The nation has 9.3 million dairy cows and 65,000 dairy farms, with the
state of Iowa comprising a total of 1,500 dairy herds that care for 204,000 cows producing 21,309 pounds of milk per cow on an annual basis.
Allamakee County has its share of producers managing 15,000 beef cows and 12,000 milk cows. For the consumer, community and businesses, these two industries are major players in providing both food and economic development. From processing plants to grocery stores and restaurants, to truckers and farmers, the dairy and beef cow are important for employment at both state and local levels.
These are just several productive aspects, but most people associate dairy and beef with milk, ice cream, cheese and yogurt from the milk cow and the steaks, roasts and ground beef from the beef cow. For instance, one dairy cow in Iowa generates 23,445 dollars of economic impact and value to a community, 10 cows generating 22,000 jobs in Iowa
and 4.9 billion dollars in Iowa. A live beef steer weighing, on average, at 1,235 pounds accounts for 522 pounds of edible meat.
LOCAL SUPPORTTo get a better insight of
these two important industries, organizations like the Allamakee County Cattlemens Association and the Allamakee County Dairy Association provide a positive face to their respective livelihoods. Ron Cota is a 57-year-old Harpers Ferry cattleman who not only represents the County Cattlemens Association as a member but is also its president. Likewise, 28-year-old Tom Gavin of Lansing is a member and president of the County Dairy Association.
Both are busy producers, Ron overseeing 750 acres and 190 beef cows, and Tom, with his dad and uncle, operating a 350-dairy cow operation, nishing out 175 fat cattle a year. Both are keen in
providing information on how important their professions are but are also anxious to promote and encourage a younger generation to become active participants in a career in either beef or dairy.
Cota believes that there is a challenge to become a producer with the expenses like equipment and land, but with the help of a family member or a retiring farmer to assist, the prices we are receiving now are good and one can make
money. Gavin concurs with this assessment and that nding that established producer is a major factor in getting that young man or woman a foot in the door for a future in a milking career. You are going to have debt, but good management, dedication and somebody to teach you will lead you on the right path, adds Gavin.
Tom went to Northeast Iowa Beef & Dairy...
Continued on page 4
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 4 JUNE 10, 2015
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Community College in Calmar for an education in dairy, and with both a dad and uncle, was given valuable insight on how to be that successful dairyman as they partnered with this young producer to give him his start. Ron also pointed to being dedicated to your operation and feels strongly that anyone now or going to start must familiarize themselves with the new and evolving technologies that are provided to give each producer an edge in their operation. Learning new technology
can be overwhelming, but you have to be willing to change, observes Cota.
Cota feels that the future looks bright for the beef producer, as numbers are still low due to a number of factors like sell-offs by Western cattlemen because of drought. This Harpers Ferry cattleman notes that its harder and slower to increase your herd numbers, nothing like the hog or poultry producer. And when mentioning poultry, he alluded to the present avian u epidemic that is threatening
poultry numbers. He feels that it could affect beef prices in a positive manner because of the dramatic losses suffered by poultry producers that might in uence more purchases of beef products. He feels for those involved with the illness that has been spreading across the Midwest, as he too has experienced losses to his cow-calf operation.
Dairy has not experienced the steady upswing on prices that beef farmers are experiencing, but has witnessed more volatility, such as 25 dollars per hundred weight last fall then declining to 15 dollar milk this past March. I dont know what the answer is to correct this volatility, but it has always existed, re ected Gavin on what he gets for his milk and the dif culty of maintaining nancially a successful operation. This issue had been a continuing problem, although another problem has emerged to give some concern to this dairyman. It is getting harder and harder to nd labor to work on the farm. Child labor
laws no longer allow us to hire neighbor kids or other kids to help, doing simple things like feeding calves. Tom added that new immigration laws are constricting Hispanic workers, who Gavin admires as very productive and hard working.
CONTINUED INTERESTBoth gentlemen and their
respective organizations are advocates and supporters of both the county 4-H programs and local FFA organizations in the county schools, part of getting new blood involved in farming. Both producers were born and raised on farms, but with more and more kids not having that experience, youth organizations like these are important to introduce and encourage more and more young people to become involved in agriculture.
They believe that if a young person is not going to become a farmer, there are still opportunities in agribusiness. National statistics support this observation as agriculture provides 25 percent of this
nations job opportunities in some manner. Both feel that if the beef and dairy industries are going to continue to be successful, it is going to take an in ux of the younger generation from both farm kids and from non-farm kids who have an interest in being farmers.
Even with 4-H and the FFA, both Cota and Gavin feel the greatest challenge is the threat to their profession by the large number of people far removed from the experiences of farming. These people are being swayed by individuals and organizations hostile to farming and livestock operations. Both point to PETA and other animal rights organizations that are using vast sums of money to dissuade the public from buying the products provided by both beef and dairy operations.
Nothing angers Gavin more than the constant barrage and accusations that his cows are constantly pumped with antibiotics. I do not harm my
Beef & Dairy...Continued from page 3
Beef & Dairy...Continued on page 5
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 5
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animals, but if they are sick, I take care of them as it is no different if a member of your family is sick and is given care, is the defense given by this Lansing dairy producer. Cota also points to the antibiotic issue and the environmental regulations that are increasing each year.
Both are strong supporters of the environment, and are for clean water and clean air like everybody else. Both practice what they preach by being environmental stewards with practices implemented to promote environmentally sound solutions that improve their natural surroundings. Both believe common sense should dictate the regulations and not be in uenced by political and ideological agendas endorsed by those opposing present farming regulations.
Also, there is an organized assault on the use of meats and dairy products in the food supply. Today, the Iowa Cattle Association has asked U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia
Burwell and Tom Vilsack of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reject some of the recommendations made by their advisory committee. Some of those recommendations include excluding lean meats from a healthy dietary pattern, to reduce consumption of red meats and to include sustainability in the 2015 Dietary Guidelines. The state cattlemens association and its county af liates are strong proponents that not only are their products safe, but also healthy. They point to past scienti c evidence and practices that justify the continued intake of their product and that this con ict between the consumers and the farmers is due to the lack of understanding and education of farming practices when dealing with livestock operations.
Both Cota and Gavin feel their involvement with each of their respective county organizations representing their business is extremely important to correct the attacks on their professions. Cota points to
the Iowa Beef Expo and other venues plus the promotions and activities provided by the individual county extension of ces as being constructive in reversing any negative publicity by opposing interests.
Cota and Gavin did not become involved in farming and, in particular, in beef and dairy because they thought it would be easy. They became involved with their respective professions because they have a passion for what they do and have carried on that passion by being representatives for their farming interests by becoming involved with organizations that promote and hope to protect their love for their work.
You might see Ron grilling at a sporting event or at the county fair, or you might see Tom during a Dairy Days event, but there is certainly more to it than that. They have taken the time and made the investments to put in the extra effort to make their operations successful which, off the farm, makes them effective ambassadors for both beef and dairy.
Beef & Dairy...Continued from page 4
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 6 JUNE 10, 2015
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Pictured above in a photo taken during a recent grilling event sponsored by the Allamakee County Cattlemens Association are members of the Association with the two area graduating high school seniors who were each awarded scholarships by the Association in 2015. Pictured, left to right, are: Front row - Dan Schmitt, Allamakee County Cattlemens Association Secretary/Treasurer; 2015 Waukon High School graduates and scholarship recipients Nick Bieber and Shelby Troendle; and Ron Cota, Allamakee County Cattlemens Association President. Back row - Allamakee County Cattlemens Association members Jerry Bulman, Jack Heffern, Don McCormick, Dan Treangen and
Gary Whittle. Submitted photo.
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awards scholarships to local students
The Allamakee County Cattlemens Association recently awarded scholarships which have been given annually to area graduating seniors who answer three essay questions on beef. Funding for the scholarships comes from a variety of events sponsored by the Cattlemen throughout the year. The Cattlemen host several grillings in downtown Waukon, and at the Allamakee County Fair and Waukon Power Sports. In the fall, the Cattlemen host a Club Calf Auction at Northeast Iowa Equity Sales Commission in Waukon, where they sell 30-40 calves to buyers throughout the country, some as far away as Texas. In the spring, the Cattlemen conduct a Breeding Soundness Exam (Semen Check) for area producers. The Cattlemen have been strong supporters of 4-H and FFA youth and have also donated money to several local organizations, including the Veterans Memorial Healthcare Foundation Christmas Fantasy and area churches.
The Allamakee County Cattlemens Association consists of area beef producers who care about beef and they would like to express their appreciation to all who have patronized them in their activities. Any beef producer who would like to become a member of the Association is invited to join.
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Till-Hill Cattle continues family legacyfor Nick and Brittany Tilleraas of rural Watervilleby Kelli Boylenfreelance writer
For Nick and Brittany Tilleraas of rural Waterville, raising beef cattle is part of their family heritage.
Nick and I both grew up with grandparents and parents that raised beef, Brittany says. For us, raising beef cattle is keeping family tradition going.
Nick and Brittany both showed beef growing up at the Allamakee County Fair and open shows. Nick graduated from Waukon High School in 2003 and Brittany in 2007. Nick started investing in beef cattle soon after high school. They met through a mutual friend, Jake McCormick, when Brittany was a junior in high school. They got to know each other more through Allamakee County Cattlemens Association activities and started dating after going together to a Cattlemens Christmas party. When they got engaged in July
2010, it was a decision they say strengthened both their relationship and commitment to the beef industry.
Beef cattle has always been a big passion for both of us, says Brittany. We both loved showing cattle growing up. We both have our own unique set of skills to bring to the table. Nick strives to produce a cow that can lay down and calve on her own, raise a big calf while converting poor quality forage into a usable product, beef! I push for our genetics to be the best they can be. Together we really want to produce easy-keeping, good-looking, great-quality animals that can do well in a cow-calf operation, show ring or feed lot.
In 2010, they worked with Nicks stepdad, Tracy Waters, and bought two registered purebred Simmental heifers from Oak Meadow Farms in Harmony, MN, and Till-Hill Cattle was born.
They decided early on
that they wanted to focus on Simmental and SimAngus (a cross between Simmentals and Angus breeds) genetics. They chose Simmental & SimAngus genetics because of their growth and performance, their maternal attributes, and they say they like baldies (cattle with white faces).
In the fall of 2010 Nick had the opportunity to buy out the remainder of his great-grandpa Barnes Angus herd. They bought six cows, ve calves and a bull from Nicks Grandpa Barnes herd, and descendants of these animals are still in their herd.
Brittanys dad, Jim Wood, gave them a few cows as a wedding gift which they use for part of their show calf crop (animals bred for good show qualities). We are continually adding new genetics when we
Tilleraas...Continued on page 8
Pictured above, left to right, are Brittany, Dallas and Nick Tilleraas of rural Waterville. The Tilleraas family owns and
operates Till-Hill Cattle and is working to grow the operation to continue a family legacy of raising beef cattle. Photo by BMW
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 8 JUNE 10, 2015
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In a typical year, the Tilleraases will calve around 20 to 25 cows, most of which are Simmental or SimAngus and a few calves meant for showing. They use arti cial insemination on just about every female, and then use a bull with elite genetics for the cows and heifers that dont get bred through arti cial insemination methods.
Nick is also a herdsman at McCormick Dairy and has been for 15 years. Kenny and Ian McCormick have allowed the Tilleraases to winter their cattle there and use their facilities from the time Nick started. They rent pastures for summer use.
We care a lot about our cattle and the land, they say. We rotationally graze pastures
or bring cows home early to not over-graze and make sure we mow and spray any invasive weeds.
They typically plan for their calves to be born from the end of February until April. Around June 10 of each year they process their calves (which includes castrating the bulls that they will not keep for breeding and giving them their rst set of vaccines for pinkeye and blackleg). At the same time, they set the cows up for breeding. Steer calves are sold straight off their mother after a preconditioning set of vaccines in September, October or November. At that time the show calves, bulls and replacement heifers are weaned, vaccinated again and pail fed for about a month so they get used to human interaction.
They routinely talk with their veterinarian and nutritionist to make sure their vaccines and feed are working the best they can for their cattle.
They market show calves in the fall through the Purple Ribbon Prospect Sale held by the Allamakee County Cattlemen. Bulls, cows and seedstock (breeding stock for commercial breeders) are sold privately and at state sales.
We take great pride in watching our cattle go on to the next step, whether that be in the show ring, someones pasture to make their next generation, or it be a steer calf going to a feedlot to make someone a great steak, Nick says.
Tilleraas...Continued from page 7
Tilleraas...Continued on page 11
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 10 JUNE 10, 2015
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Nick does the day-to-day chores. Brittany operates a photography business and helps out whenever she can. Brittany also does any grooming, clipping and photo-taking needed for advertising the cattle and helps a lot with the show calves before the sale. Nick does all the arti cial insemination work along with some custom arti cial insemination jobs. They work together on the selection of genetics for their herd for the next generation of Till-Hill Cattle.
They say their rich family history of beef farming adds to their operation. Its always fun reminiscing about What would Grandpa Barnes think of this mating... or Uncle Rich would just laugh if he knew Brittany ended up liking Herefords because of a boy, they say.
One of the pastures we rent used to belong in my family and I can remember helping my grandpa feed his cattle there, Brittany says. Nick proposed to me next to the pasture where
I would go call in the cows with my dad and Grandpa Wood as a small girl, knowing it was my favorite place. Nicks Great Aunt Peggy just sent us some Angus pins in the mail she found that belonged to his great-grandpa. Small details like that make it so special to us.
Nick and Brittany feel they are lucky that they can do what they really love and get to do it as a family. We love meeting new people and making new friends along the way. Raising beef isnt just an occupation, its a lifestyle and we love it! says Brittany.
Brittany and Nick are also insuring the family farming tradition continues on for at
least another generation. We both enjoy taking our two-year-old daughter, Dallas, out and showing her a new baby calf and seeing the wonder in her eyes. There is so much joy for us in making this a family affair. Our cattle are our business, but they are also like family to us.
Brittany says Till-Hill Cattle is diverse because they raise beef and dairy, but beef really is their main passion. They have about 31 dairy cattle, of which 15 are in milk. They are part of McCormick Dairy where Nick is a herdsman.
Brittany went to Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) in Calmar for Ag Business. She started her photography business which took off, so she left her schooling to pursue that career. She says, Its been quite amazing. Ive had photos in Progressive Dairymen, Top Agrar (Leading German Magazine) and will have a featured month in Riley Round Up for MS Calendar for the year 2016 with photos I took at the Iowa Beef Expo 2015.
Tilleraas...Continued from page 8
Allamakee County Extension
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Allamakee County
ExtensionWaukon, IAHealthy People. Environments. Economies.
We Salute Area Beef and Dairy Producers!
Postville Veterinary Clinic, P.C.WE CARE ABOUT CRITTERS LARGE & SMALL
110 Hyman Drive, Postville Ph. 563-864-3631 Fax 563-864-3620Drs. Moore, Jacobs, Riese, Franzen, Hammell, Gibbs, Pepin, Knutson
PVCPVC
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 12 JUNE 10, 2015
Schultes BBQ &
Catering705 4th Ave. SW, Waukon, IA
563-568-2241 or 563-568-2454Rich Schulte
We Support Our Area
Beef & Dairy Producers!
CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS
Pioneer dairyman Virgil Herman still going strongby Lissa Blake
At 81 years old, Virgil Herman could be taking it easy.
But after 74 years of farming, Herman is still going strong, helping on the farm where he has lived for 54 years.
Herman, a 1952 graduate of Waukon High School, inherited some big responsibilities at a very young age. The son of John and Alice Herman, Virgil was milking cows by the age of seven on the farm his family owned near Green Valley Golf Course north of Waukon.
He remembered how excited his dad was in 1945 when he decided to make the leap from hand-milking to using a machine. He knew wed be getting power soon, so he bought a milk machine and got it installed, said Virgil.
Herman...Continued on page 13
Virgil Herman of Waukon
was awarded the Pioneer Dairyman Award at the 2015
Allamakee County Dairy
Banquet. Photo by
Lissa Blake.
901 3rd Ave. SW, Waukon, IA 563-568-4305 www.benje.qwestoffice.net
FULL SERVICE MACHINE SHOP with new ideas and quality products to make your job easier.
Over twenty years of experience and 40,000 sq. ft. of facilities to serve you.
No job is too small or too large.
Thanks Beef & Dairy Producers for Providing Quality Products!
GARYSTractor & Implement
563-568-3509727 E. Main, Waukon [email protected]
Dry faster.Bale sooner.
The new Kubota TE Series Tedder is designed to dry hay faster. With four rotors
and wide overlap, hay is completely lifted and
distributed evenly over the entire working area.
171 Working Width Kubota Super C Tines Maintenance-friendly gearbox
Hydraulic lift and transport mode
We Salute Our Dairy Producers
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FAIRSUPPLIES
FREEMILKSHAKES
Friday, June 12th
603 Hwy. 18 WestMonona, IA 52159
563-539-2405
625 2nd Ave. SW (Hwy. 9)Cresco, IA 52136
563-547-2492 Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30, Sat. 7:30-5:00, Sun 10:00-2:00
Gift Certifi cates Available
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 13
BEEF & DAIRY
RW PLADSEN INC. WAUKON, IA 563-568-6357
WERE HERE FOR ALL OF YOUR VEHICLE NEEDS!
www.pladseninc.com
We Salute All Beef & Dairy
Producers!
March 30, 1945, the Herman farm turned on the power.
But the excitement was short-lived, when just a day and a half later tragedy struck John Herman had a stroke and passed away. Virgil, just 11 years old, and his brother, Alton, age 14, were left to care for the farm.
And by the time Virgil turned 15, Alton had reached the age of leaving home, and Virgil was faced with both running the farm and trying to nish his education. My mother wouldnt let me quit school, remembered Virgil.
HELP ARRIVESVirgil said although he
worked hard, he was thankful for an uncle, Elmer Sanderson, who helped Virgil with morning milking and some chores. Later on, when Virgil served in the U.S. Army for two years, his sister, Lillian Christianson, and her husband, Hillman, took care of the farm.
When Virgil returned from
the service, he married Darlena Ehde in 1957. He said the couple experienced some rough times on the family farm.
I remember we had Lepto in the cows and pigs and the cows were aborting. There were a couple of tough years in there, he said.
MOVING ONA few years later, the man
who owned the farm where Virgil still lives now was looking for a hired man. Virgil said because he had his own place, he was at rst hesitant to make the move.
There was really no incentive for me. But I had a neighbor who had a 40/60 contract and I had the guy look at it, said Virgil.
The two decided to partner, and in 1961, Virgil sold his 103-acre family farm and moved to the 246-acre farm on Dug Road north of Waukon, where he and Darlena still live today.
When we got down here (to the farm on Dug Road),
we had milk cows and beef cattle - mostly Holsteins and Herefords. We had some hogs, too, he said.
Virgil started out milking 23 cows with Surge buckets and a small can cooler.
The cooler couldnt handle it, so we ended up getting a bulk tank. The next year, we took out a calf pen and put in a barn cleaner and additional stanchions, for a total of 34. We also started keeping more cattle outside, he said.
Virgil said with the expansion, the bulk tank wasnt big enough, and he had to go even bigger, building a bigger milk house with more milk storage.
The milk man was supposed to pick up milk every other day, but half the year, he picked up every day because there was just too much milk, he said.
A PLACE OF HIS OWNIn 1968, Virgil and Darlena
Waukon, IA www.fareway.com
Farm Fresh Dairy
Products & USDA
Choice Beef Grocery Dept. 563-568-5017 Meat Dept. 563-568-5018
Herman...Continued from page 12
Herman...Continued on page 14
Your job takes dedication, skillful management and a lot of hard work.
Waukon Veterinary ServiceLarge & Small Animals
605 Rossville Rd., Waukon IA 563-568-2487Craig A. Phipps, DVM Rodney A. Smed, DVM
Ryan B. Hammell, DVM Joe C. Adrian, DVM & Staff
We are dedicated to providing quality service.
Thank You!
Your job takes dedication, skillful
We Are Proud to Serve Our Beef &
Dairy Farm Families! 563-568-3680101 1st Ave. NW, Waukon, IA
High Efficiency Furnaces & Air
Conditioners Geothermal Radiant Floor Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels
WE SALUTE OUR AREA BEEF AND DAIRY
FARMERS!
Adam Kurth, Owner
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 14 JUNE 10, 2015
JOHN DEEREParts,
Service & Equipment
140 Hwy. 9 SW, Waukon, IA563-568-3463
www.bodensteinerimp.com
BODENSTEINER IMPLEMENT CO.Congratulations to All Allamakee County Beef & Dairy Producers!
Other Locations: Elkader, Clermont, Oelwein, Cresco, Decorah, Rowley, Monticello, Cascade, Dyersville & New Hampton
(563) 568-2017 927 West Main St., Waukon, IA
A Salute to our Dairymen & Beef Producers!
Enter as strangers, leave as friendsCyndas
X Serving Breakfast All Day! X Hamburgers X Steak Sandwiches X Homemade Pies & Donuts
bought the farm and gave up raising hogs to make more room for calves. Farm improvements included digging a well across the road where the beef cattle were kept, pouring cement and installing a Harvestore silo.
We would nish our beef cattle and Holstein steers up to 900 pounds, said Virgil, adding that at the height of his milking career, he milked 51 cows twice a day.
Additional expansions included putting up a second silo, renting additional ground for the beef cattle and buying a neighboring farm for crops and pasture.
Over the years Ive tried a little of everything, he said.
MOVING ONIn 1988, Virgil said he had to
rethink his priorities following back surgery, which required
Herman...Continued from page 13
putting steel plates in his back. At that time, I knew if I ever got knocked down again, I would end up in a wheelchair, he said.
So Virgil made the decision to sell the dairy herd, which made more room for his beef operation. Then in 2004, his cousin, Rusty Berger, inquired about purchasing the farm.
He wanted some beef cattle, but he had no place to put them, said Virgil.
Today, although Rusty owns the farm, Virgil and Darlena still live in the house, and Virgil still helps out when he can. He recently put in some nine- and 10-hour days helping to plant corn and soybeans.
Everybody keeps telling me I should be retired, but Im still helping out, he said.
The Hermans have two children, Stanley and Susan (Erickson).
We are a preferred shop for local and
major insurance companies.
Ask about our lifetime warranty
on collision repair.
AUTO BODY
REPAIR
2523 State Hwy. 76 SE, Waukon, IA563-568-6464
We Support the Beef & Dairy Farmers
Koenig Seed & Treat, LLC.334 Minert Rd., Postville
Dennis Koenig 563-419-6272or Travis Koenig 563-419-8814
We proudly join in the salute to
our area beef and dairy producers!
19 1st. Ave. NW, Waukon, IA 563-568-4567
Hacker, Nelson & Co., P.C., CPAs
We are all proud to support the farm families in Allamakee County!
Your hard work & dedication are appreciated.
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 15
BEEF & DAIRY
In Emergencies... Seconds Count!
Go to your closest hospital for Emergency Care.Dont risk further illness or injury by delaying
immediate treatment, especially in the case of a heart attack or stroke.
24 HOUR EMERGENCY
SERVICEVETERANS
MEMORIAL HOSPITALWaukon, Iowa (563) 568-3411
Veterans Memorial Hospital is proud to announce that it has
again been named a
The Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes top-
performing facilities that consistently
achieved the 95th percentile, or top 5% of hospitals nation-
wide, of performance in Emergency Services. This is the fth year in a row the hospital
has been recognized for its high emergency services satisfaction scores.
by Press Ganey Associates, Inc.
GUARDIAN OF EXCELLENCE
AWARD WINNER
2011SUMMIT
AWARD WINNER
2010SUMMIT
AWARD WINNER
2012SUMMIT
AWARD WINNER
2013GUARDIAN OF EXCELLENCE
AWARD WINNER
2014GUARDIAN OF EXCELLENCE
AWARD WINNER
We are proud of our hard-working dairy producers
& farm families!
MATT CORLETT 563-380-3016
GFMutual Insurance Association
20 Spring Ave., Waukon, IA (563) 568-3148Insurance for Town and Farm
Aerial Truck, Backhoe/Trenching, New or Remodel Agricultural Industrial Residential
Cell 563-380-2547 563-535-3002
COMPLETE ELECTRICAL SERVICES
WE EXTEND OUR THANKS TO THE AREA BEEF AND DAIRY PRODUCERS.
AndersonAndersonAndersonELECTRIC SERVICEELECTRIC SERVICEELECTRIC SERVICE
Serving Northeast
Iowa
Applications due July 1 for 2015 Iowa Beef Heifer Awards
Members of 4-H, FFA and junior breed associations who own and exhibit a market beef or breeding heifer at the 2015 Iowa State Fair this year are eligible to enter the Iowa Beef Heifer Award contest. Winning an award will help these young cattle producers expand their herds.
The winner of each participating breed division will receive a certi cate for the purchase of a registered female. Sponsors of these awards are the Iowa State Fair and the respective state breed associations. The breeds for which applicants can compete for a certi cate are: Angus, Charolais, Gelbvieh, Hereford, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Red Angus, Salers, Shorthorn or Simmental. Show halters are presented to runner-ups and are sponsored by Kent Feeds,
Inc. of Muscatine.The Iowa Beef Heifer
Award program is designed to honor outstanding youth and future leaders of the beef industry. The program was created to increase the interest and participation in the beef breeding heifer project by allowing youth to earn a certi cate for the purchase of a breeding female.
Applicants for the award will be evaluated on leadership and involvement in breed organizations and
community activities, as well as responsibilities and growth within their beef project. Finalists for the breed awards will need to participate in a personal interview to be held Monday, August 17 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds with a panel of judges. Winners will be announced during the selection of the Grand Champion 4-H breeding heifer August 18.
The Iowa Cattlemens Association (ICA) coordinates the application process. Program guidelines and applications can be found on the ICA website,www.iacattlemen.org, under the Membership Awards tab. Click on the Beef Heifer Award listing. More information can also nd by calling Kellie Carolan at 515-296-2266. Applications are due to the ICA of ce in Ames no later than July 1.
We believe in agriculture and are proud to recognize this great industry!
Thanks farm families!
27 Spring Ave., Waukon (563) 568-3711www.waukongreenhouse.com We Accept All Major Credit Cards
Hrs: Mon. 8:30-6; Tue. - Fri. 8:30-5; Sat. 8:30-3
Established 1928
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 16 JUNE 10, 201524 HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
AAA Service Door Unlocks Flatbed Hauling Long & Short Distance Hauling Major & Minor Repairs
2149 Allamakee St., Waukon, IA 563-568-3132Owners: Brian & Marie Buringtonwww.dannymacstowing.com
563-864-7611www.acrec.com
You have the power to make a difference.
Americas electric cooperatives are working to identify solutions to climate change. One of the quickest remedies is to embrace conservation and efficiency - and make them part of your daily routine.
Reduce your consumption of electricity by turning off anything that consumes electricity when not needed. Replace or upgrade theessentials in your life, (appliances, lighting, insulation)to realize the same benefits with less electricity.
By using electricity more efficiently, we can slow the overall growth for more power.
Remember, were all in this together.
Stay alert for danger, especially when moving tall
equipment like augers.
Todays large farm equipment can be a hazard around
electric lines.
Sycamore Floral
116 Rossville Rd., Waukon (563) 568-3676 www.sycamorefloral.com
We Salute All Area Beef & Dairy Producers!
Katie Kerndt (center in above photo), daughter of Brad and Mary Kerndt of rural Waukon, was crowned the 2015 Allamakee County Dairy Princess at the annual Allamakee
County Dairy Banquet held Saturday, March 21 at the Allamakee County Fairgrounds Pavilion in Waukon. Also selected at the annual banquet as 2015 Alternate Dairy
Princesses were Emily Miller (left in above photo), daughter of Joel and Shawn Miller of rural Waukon, and Anna Weighner
(right in above photo), daughter of Tom and Angela Weighner of rural Dorchester. Photo courtesy of Paula Enyart.
2015 Allamakee County Dairy Royalty crowned at annual banquet
2014 Foremost Farms USA Cooperative
2015 Foremost Farms USA Cooperative
E10889 Penny Lane Baraboo WI 53913-8115 (608) 355-8700 www.foremostfarms.com
Our future looks bright.
Infrastructure
investment
Market access
Diversied products
Global
customers
Were building long-term markets for our members milk.
Is Foremost in your future?
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 17
BEEF & DAIRYthe family operation.MAKING IT WORK
Over the years, the De-Su registered Holstein herd has expanded to the point the Meyers now own three farms: two where they milk and one where they raise heifers. The Meyers and about 30 full-time employees milk a total of 1,500 cows three times per day.
We run three, eight-hour shifts. It takes us an hour every 12 hours to clean up. We power wash, run the pipeline cleaner and sanitize, then start again, said Darin.
The main farm has a double 18 parallel parlor, and six different groups of cows are milked in rotation. Each wears a computer chip, which helps monitor their activity level.
We keep track of their level of activity and the parlor takes a conductivity test. That way we know if a cow is feeling healthy, Darin said. We also
De-Su...Continued from page 2
This freestall barn on one of three farms in the De-Su Holsten operation houses about 1,200 cattle. Photo by Lissa Blake.De-Su...
Continued on page 18
Sycamore Floral
116 Rossville Rd., Waukon (563) 568-3676 www.sycamorefloral.com
We Salute All Area Beef & Dairy Producers!
Thank You De-Su Holsteinsfor choosing Mlsna Dairy Supply!
1126 Front St., Cashton, WI 866-990-5106
www.mdsi.biz
Were proud to do business
with you!
DeLaval Swinging Cow Brush
DeLaval Calf Feeder CF1000Call Us Today For More InformationAbout DeLaval Calf Feeders or
Swinging Cow Brushes!
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 18 JUNE 10, 2015
Your Calhoun Super Structure Dealer!Waukon, IA
563-535-7799877-864-7691
Advantages of a Calhoun Super
Structure Naturally Bright Free Span Interior Variety of Foundation
Options Lower Operational
Costs Easily Relocated
& Extendable Quick Installation Hot Dip Galvanized
Steel Unsurpassed
EngineeringOu_r S ength is in Ou_r S uctu_r e Calh n Sup S uctu_r es
Its Grilling Season!
JETSMEAT PROCESSING
10 - 9th St. NW, Waukon(563) 568-2403
STOP IN & PICK UP Steaks
Pork Chops Chicken Breasts
Ground Beef Patties
Brats & Brat Patties
Wieners
HRS: MON-FRI 8AM-5PM, SAT 8AM-1PM, CLOSED SUN
keep them comfortable and well fed. They have fans on in the summer and deep-bedded sand they can lie on. We take as good of care of them as we can.
The Meyers grow most of their own high-moisture corn, corn silage and haylage, and they farm about 3,500 acres to feed everything. We own some crop land and rent some as well, Darin explained.
BREEDING PROGRAMAccording to Charlie Will,
manager of Select Sires Holstein sire program, the
Meyers are the companys number-one genetic sire supplier.
Two years ago, the farm had the top Holstein bull in the entire world, Observer. Last December, De-Su Holsteins Bookem was rated number two. The Meyers currently have several bulls leased to Select Sires.
Darin said when he is looking for the perfect animal, he focuses more on production traits with an exceptional
De-Su...Continued from page 17
De-Su...Continued on page 20
In the photo at left, Dean Meyer
stands in the free stall barn
where the De-Su Holstein herd
is fed as part of the family-based dairy operation.
The Meyers harvest and store most of
their own feed, with the bunker system pictured below being part of that storage system. Photos by Lissa Blake.
WIEBKETIRE & EXHAUST, LLC
320 S State 44/76, Caledonia, MN 507-725-2875
THANK YOU Beef & Dairy Producers!
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 19
BEEF & DAIRY
Caledonia Ready Mix
Ready Mix Concrete Custom Concrete Pumping Rockwood Retaining Wall Products Colored Mulch
Landscaping Rock Driveway Road Rock
Caledonia Ready Mix
THANK YOU Dean & Sue Meyer
134 BISSEN ST., CALEDONIA, MN507-725-3374 or 800-944-2507
of De-Su Holsteins
FOR DOING
BUSINESS WITH US!
DE-SU HOLSTEINS
The Meyer family of De-Su Holsteins milks in a double 18
parallel parlor (pictured above). The milk is then cooled and
loaded directly onto a milk truck for shipping to help save energy costs.
Photos by Lissa Blake.
We Salute & Support the Dairy & Beef Farmers
Shop Village Farm & Home for all your dairy & beef needs.
Cleaning Supplies Fly Control Products Milk Filters Dairy Towels Animal Health
Red Brand Fencing Supplies Sioux Gates Bale Feeders Bunks
Twine Net Silo Wrap Bunker Covers
11748 State Hwy. 44, MABEL, MN(507) 493-5217
Hrs: Mon-Thur 7:30-6, Fri 7:30-8, Sat 7:30-5
Providing on-farm AETA certifi ed embryo services and ultrasound examinations specializing in early pregnancy diagnosis and fetal sexing.
JUSTIN HELGERSON, DVMKIA KNUTSON, DVM
Hats o to all local Beef & Dairy Farmers!
Call f all y r embryo and reproductive s vice needs!
Decorah, IA563-380-0912
to the De-Su Holstein Farm Family for choosing us for your embryo and
reproductive service needs.
Thank Y Locally Owned Full S vice Lumb Y d520 S Hwy 44 & 76 Caledonia, MN
Phone: 507-725-3381Located on Hwy 44 about 1/4 mile south of the junction
of Main St and Hwy 44, in Caledonia, Minnesota.
Caledonia Lumber Co., Inc.
Thanks Beef & Da y Produc s!
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 20 JUNE 10, 2015phenotypic package. They have to have good feet, legs and udders as well as good production, he said.
While the Meyers raise hundreds of calves a year, they tailor their breeding program to utilize only the top herd genetics they have available. We take the top cows, superovulate them, and implant fertilized eggs from our best bulls and best cows back into a recipient, said Darin.
Heifers are rst ushed when theyre about 10 months old and bred when they are about 15 months old. Most of our cows end up being recipients, Darin stated.
Darin added that they keep all of their heifers and many of their bulls for breeding stock. The others are sold for veal calves.
SUSTAINABILITYIn an age where farmers
frequently come under re for their practices, the Meyers do what they can to recycle and
reuse whatever they can. All of the manure from the farms operation goes back into the soil, and they plant a high quantity of alfalfa to minimize erosion on their land.
Immediately after a cow is milked, their milk passes through a plate cooler, and cold water instantly cools it before it is loaded onto the milk truck. The water is then recycled and used to water the cows.
In addition, the Meyers save the electricity that would otherwise be used to cool the milk in bulk tanks by direct shipping their milk, which leaves on a truck every 12 hours. We try not to waste anything, said Darin.
In addition, all of the farms tractors are tted with IVTs (in nitely variable transmissions), which minimizes the amount of fuel used. It isnt just about hugging a tree. Its got to make economic sense too. Being green is also about saving money, said Darin.
De-Su...Continued from page 18
De-Su Holsteins has also grown to become
the top genetic sire supplier in the Select
Sires Holstein sire program. The De-Su
bull Bookem (pictured at right) was rated as the number-two Holstein bull in the
entire world just this past December. Photo
courtesy of Select Sires.
In addition to being one of the top dairy
production operations on many levels, De-
Su Holsteins has also gained worldwide
recognition as a top genetic supplier. In fact, the De-Su bull Observer
(pictured at left) was rated as the top Holstein bull in the entire world two years ago. Photo
courtesy of Select Sires.
Stop In & Visit With Us About Your
Hay Fertilizer Needs!
LIQUID & DRY FERTILIZER CUSTOM APPLICATION DEKALB & ASGROW SEEDS
VALLEY AGNew Albin, IA 563-544-4242 888-544-8526
Locally Owned & Operated
Hwy 9 & 76 South, Waukon, IA563-568-3459
BUILD WITH THE BEST!
See us for all your farm building needs.Quality Materials, Workmanship & Friendly Service.
Thanks De-Su Holsteinsfor Choosing Us for Your Machine
Shop Building Materials!
96 x 96 x 20 Machine Shop
Thank You De-Su Holsteins
for your business!
GROVE Plumbing & Heating
SPRING GROVE, MN507-498-5215
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 21
BEEF & DAIRY
11 West Main St., Waukon, IA 563-568-2301
Shirts Sweatshirts Jackets Hats Much More
www.getepicwear.com
Stop in and order your Personalized Farm Family Clothing Today!
Congratulations Fidelity Bank & Trust employee
SHELBY TROENDLE, the 2014-2015 Allamakee
County Beef Queen!
820 11th Ave. SW, Waukon, IA
563-568-5234
We salute our Dairy and Beef
Farmers!
Stop in and visit with
Dan Headington for your ag loan needs!
Shelby Troendle was crowned as the 2014-2015 Allamakee County Beef Queen in October of last year. Shelby is the daughter of Kerry and Tammy Troendle of Waukon and graduated from Waukon High School in May of this year. Shelby is involved in Allamakee County 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA), is a varsity wrestling cheerleader and belongs to St. Marys, Hanover Catholic Church.
Shelby grew up working with beef throughout her life on her parents farm in the West Ridge area of rural Waukon. She says she has had a fun time showing her home-raised cattle with her family at the Iowa Beef Expo and County Fairs. She says her favorite part of the beef industry is how raising beef can feed so many people.
She will be assisting the Allamakee County Cattlemens Association at grillings, visiting school districts, recording radio spots, and taking part in parades and many more beef promotions throughout her reign. Shelby plans on attending college beginning this fall at Iowa State University in Ames to pursue a degree in Agriculture Business.
Shelby Troendle crowned Allamakee County Beef Queen
Shelby Troendle
Best Genetics, Best Fertility, Best Service
Scott Courtney, Direct Herd
Sales563-380-1318
Jim Wood, Technician Services
563-568-7610
Our Mission: To enhance the productivity and pro tability of dairy and beef producers, Select Sires is committed to be the premier provider of highly fertile, superior genetics accompanied by e ective reproductive- and herd-management products and services.
847-464-5281www.prairiestateselectsires.com
508 W. Main St., Waukon (563) 568-6015
GUS & TONYSPizza & Steakhouse
DAVES
We are Proud to Serve Quality Beef & Dairy Products!
Saturday Nights serving at 5pm
$1295Choice of potato, salad & Texas toast
PRIME RIB DINNER
DEE IMPLEMENTWaukon, IA (563) 568-4511
New Albin, IA (563) 544-4282www.deeimp.net
TRACTORSNH T7040, 800 hrs.NH 65 WorkmasterNH 8870, 4WDNH TC18, 4WD, 54 deckJD 3720 w/ldr. & mowerMF 85, gasTILLAGE EQUIPMENTKrause 6200-31 finisherKrause 6118-18 finisherKrause 3115A -15 finisherKrause 3112A-12 finisherCIH 4800-24 field cult.McFarlane 30 reel discSunflower 22 finisherGlencoe 6000 30 finisherJD 2700-7 shank ripperJD 724-15 finisherJD 726-finisherWilrich 30 field cultivatorCase IH 4 row cultivatorUnverferth 6 shank ripperUnverferth 19 rolling reelDMI 9 shank disc chiselCIH 13 shank disc chiselKewanee 21 mulcher
PLANTERS & SEEDERSWhite 8222, 12 row, newWhite 8106, 6 row, newWhite 9106, 6 row, newJD 7000, 12 rowWhite 5100, 8 rowWhite 6100, 4 rowHAY EQUIPMENTNH HW340 discbineNH H7230 discbinesNH 1411 & 1412 discbinesNH 1465 haybineNH 489 haybineCIH DC102 discbineNI 5209 discbinesJD 630 discbineJD 935 discbineNH 311 baler & throwerNH 316 baler & throwerBR7060 Silage SpecialNH BR750 round balerNH BR780 round balerGehl 520, 12 wheel rakeKuhn 4120 rotary rakeKuhn 10 & 12 wheel rakesTonutti 10 wheel rakeNH 154 - 12 wheel rakeMiller 7914 mergerPhiber merger
SPREADERSNH 185 tandem boxNH 195 tandem boxH&S 270 boxNew Idea 3732
tandem boxKnight 8118 ExpellerKnight 8018 ExpellerSKIDS & LOADERSNH L454, 2500 hrs.NH L225, 1400 hrs.NH L220, 1100 hrs.NH LS170, 5800 hrs.NH LS125, 1000 hrs.OMC 320, 2000 hrs.NH-D 100 skid backhoeG8800 loader w/bucketJD 148 loaderHuskie HH300 hammerNEW IDEA UNI & HEADS20- NI power units50 -NI corn & hay headsNI 767, 868, 6200 choppersNI 729A & 858 shellersNI 737, 838, 839 husking beds
FORAGE EQUIPMENTNH FP 230, metalNH 900 chopperNH 890 chopperGehl 1260 chopperNH Kemper & row headsJD & Gehl corn & hay
hds., 2R & 3RNH corn & hay headsNH 28 blowerGehl 1540 blowerGehl 980, 16 boxMISCELLANEOUSBush Hog 8 bladeFarmhand 817 grinder
mixerWestfield 10x31 augerFarm King 10 x 70 augerBig Ox 6 cutterNI 324 pickerMN 365 bu. box & gearJD 443 & 444 headsIH 843, 4 rowNH 974 headsFarmhand dump carts
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 22 JUNE 10, 2015
For All Your Pressure Washing NeedsContact Capco Products
Capco Products800-634-4785
capcoproducts.com420 Big Foot Rd., Monona, IA
We service & repair all American made pressure washers
40+ Years of Sales & Service
Thank you Beef & Dairy Farm Families for all of your hard work!
Sweeney Auction Service Jeff L. Sweeney, Auctioneer - 568-2464
For All Kinds Of Sales
The store where the quality is higher than the price.
SUPPLY STORE WAUKON, IA 563-568-4577
VILLAGE
AND
Christmas Toyland
We Accept Santa Cash
Open Sundays 11 am to 4 pm UNTIL CHRISTMAS
Winter Clothing
Lites & Small Trees
Ladies Sweatshirts and Snow Boots, Gloves and Stocking Caps, Carhartt, Key,
Wrangler, Wigwam & Five Brothers
Also Open Nights until Christmas
Tractor Radios, Sentry Safes, Step Ladders, Bird Feeders,
Oster Animal Clippers, Booster Cables,
Tool Boxes, Drill Press, Bunn and West Bend
Coffee Makers, Chicago Cutlery Knives,
Electric Knives, Can Openers and GIFT CERTIFICATES!
Extra 25% Off NASCAR Cars & Trucks!
Pedal Tractors, Sleds, Puzzles, Farm Sets, Farm Animals, Trikes, Snow Boards, & Breyer Horses
Snow Shovels, Ice Scrapers, Ice Melt
Thank you Beef and Dairy Farmers!
Shakes served by the Allamakee CountyDairy Princess & Dairy Ambassadors
Visit Us On Our
Thursday, June 18Free Ice Cream Shakes!
Thursday, June 18DAIRY DAY
To celebrate May as Beef Month, students at Waukon High School and Waukon Junior High School were treated to local hamburgers May 7. Members of the Allamakee County Cattlemens Association were on hand to help Allamakee Community School District food service staff grill nearly 900 burgers made from local beef. The beef was from a cow born and raised in Allamakee County, then processed at Quillins Food Ranch in Waukon. The cost of processing was covered by grant funds awarded to the Iowa Food Hub from the United States Department of Agriculture Farm to School program and the Allamakee County Community Foundation. Students and staff agreed, the burgers were delicious! Submitted photo.
Waukon High School, Junior High students enjoy local beef in honor of May Beef Month
www.westsideautosales.net 800-805-3292
KIEFER TRAILER DEALER
Thank You area beef &
dairy producers for shopping
local for all your trailer needs!
WEST SIDE WAUKON LUMBER, INC.
1105 West Main St., Waukon, IA 563-568-6396
Home Owned & Operated by Stilwell
Family
THANKS BEEF & DAIRY PRODUCERS
See Us for All Your
BUILDING AND REMODELING NEEDS
Landscape Timbers Cement Pavers
Black Creosote Posts
ON SALE!P New Homes
P Pole ShedsP WindowsP Doors
P Interior MillworkP Decks P ShinglesP Hidden Fasteners
P Steel Roofing
P And Much More
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 23
BEEF & DAIRY
TIM PHIPPS, HOOF TRIMMER2893 Hwy 76 Dorchester, IA 52140
Home: 563-497-4011Cell: 563-568-1441
Thank You Dairy & Beef Producers!
Tims Trimmin& Hoof Care
On-the-spot tire repair or replacement Liquid-Filling for tires Free inspection and evaluation program Complete line of quality Good Year Tires
For service in a HURRY, call us, youll quickly see why were No. 1
Working with farmers in & out of the field
WAUKON TIRE CENTER Highway 76 N. Waukon (563) 568-4581
Where Health Changing Smiles Are Created!
We Salute Our Area
Beef & Dairy Farmers!
DR. MARK FOHEY, DR. LINDA CARSTENS
& DR. JESSICA WILKE
Waukon Dental
www.waukondental.com
18 1st Ave. NW, Waukon, IA 563-568-4528 General, Cosmetic &
Family Dentistry
241 Total Combined Years of Our Dental Team Staff Members
Celebrating 35 Years of Family Dental Care
The Clear Alternative to Braces
Awards presented at 2015 Allamakee County Dairy Banquet
The Allamakee County Dairy Promotion Board rec-ognized contributions of local producers and businesses to the dairy industry at its Annual Dairy Banquet held Saturday, March 21 at the Allamakee County Fairgrounds Pavilion
Dairy Banquet photos in this section
by Paula Enyart
Distinguished Dairy Family ...
The Tom Weighner fami-ly, represented above, left to right, by Stephanie Iverson, Anna Weighner, Angela and Tom Weighner, and Liz and Shane Murphy.
in Waukon. In addition to the crowning of Katie Kerndt, daughter of Brad and Mary Kerndt of Waukon, as the 2015 Allamakee County Dairy Princess, the awards depicted in the surrounding photos were also distributed at the banquet
to area producers, individuals, businesses and other organi-zations in recognition of their service to the dairy industry.
Distinguished Service to Dairy Industry ...
Frank Lonning of Tri-State Hay Auction.
From L.E.D. Bulbs to High Bay Fixtures. You Name the Socket, We Have the Bulb.
Upgrade to high
efficiency.
It pays!!!
Bob Larkin Phone 568-3915
Brighter days begin with a call to Light Source.
Now available: Utility Rebates up to 50%!
Thank You Beef & Dairy Farmers!
BAR & GRILLOwners Vicki & Brad Bloxham39 W. Main St., Waukon 563-568-2656
City Club WaukonSpecialty Sandwiches
Dine-In or Carry
Out
Pizzas Dessert Pizzas Calzones Breadsticks
Taco Salads
THANKS TO ALL OUR LOCAL BEEF & DAIRY PRODUCERS
-
CALHOUN CREAMERY538-4295 1-888-420-1554
CHURCHTOWN, IOWA
We would like to congratulate our producers
and their families on a job well done
throughout the year.
We are pleased to announce the following major award winners fromAllamakee County.
June is DAIRY MONTH
Katie Kerndt, Dairy Princess
Daughter of Brad & Mary Kerndt
Alternate Dairy PrincessAnna Weighner, Daughter of Tom & Angela Weighner
Distinguished Dairy FamilyTom & Angela Weighner
Outstanding Young Dairy FarmerKevin & Bobbi Jo Baxter
Pioneer DairymanVirgil Herman
Junior Dairy AmbassadorsKaylee GibbsKiersten GibbsKendra GibbsCael RethwishMarcus GibbsCassidy GibbsEthan GibbsMariesa GibbsClaire Opperman
Outstanding Woman in AgricultureMichelle Byrnes
Class Leader Cows:Ayrshire Arlyn & Kevin FossumJerseyArlyn & Kevin FossumMixed BreedSteve & Paula EnyartMatt & Michelle ByrnesGav-N-View Farms
Ribbon Winners for ProductionSteve & Paula EnyartGav-N-View FarmsGreg & Jenny ConwayArlyn & Kevin FossumSchwartzhoff DairyGibbs Family Dairy Greg & Rosie PiggottMatt & Michelle ByrnesCurtis & Bruce AndersonChris & Nancy WonderlichMcCormick DairyKandy-Bahr HolsteinsDC Regan FarmsLarry & John Schellhammer
High Production Herd and Most Improved Herd for Milk, Fat and Protein...
De-Su Holsteins, Dean and Sue Meyer.
Golden Butterknife Award...Expresso Convenience Store of Lansing,
represented by Donna and Pat Bresnahan.
Pioneer Dairyman Award...Virgil and Darlena Herman.
2015Dairy Banquet Awards
BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 24 JUNE 10, 2015Walleser Excavating & Concrete
Home Ph. 563-535-7570 Cell 563-568-7667
Septic Systems Tile Repair Waterlines ICF Walls 4 Trenching
Silage Bunkers, Poured Floors, Walls, Driveways & Sidewalks
Stamped Concrete Colored Concrete Block Retaining Walls
Fully InsuredTed Walleser, Owner
HATS OFF TO AREA BEEF & DAIRY FARM FAMILIES!
-
BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 25
BEEF & DAIRY
We support our local Beef & Dairy Families.
Thank you for your business!
BRYNSAAS SALES & SERVICE INC.1660 Jordan West Rd., Decorah, IA 563-382-4484
Serving You Since 1961
Proudly Serving
Northeast Iowa for
89 Years.www.torkelsonmotors.com
WE SALUTE AREA BEEF & DAIRY PRODUCERS!
RAM TRUCKSMADE FOR THOSE WHO STAND APART
2015 Dodge Durango Limited 4x4
Heated leather seats, blind detectionMSRP $41,585 Sale Price* $39,353
SAVE$2,232
2015 Dodge Charger SXT ALL WHEEL DRIVE
Heated leather, Back up camera, blind spot detectionMSRP $37,780 Sale Price* $34,556
SAVE$3,224
2015 Dodge Grand Caravan SEStow-n-go seats, rear heat & air
MSRP $25,190 Sale Price* $20,946
SAVE$4,244
TORKELSONS TORKELSONS If you dont see the vehicle youre looking for... well find it on
our Vehicle Locator Service!
Expert Certified Chrysler Brand
Technicians ELGIN 1-800-779-0035 563-426-5505
Proudly serving the Area for 89 years. WAUKON
1-800-779-0092 563-568-4587
See us on the web at www.torkelsonmotors.com Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram are registered trademarks of Chrysler Group LLC.
Program Ends June 1, 2015 *Sale price includes rebate to dealer. Residency may effect rebates.Ram 1500, Chrysler 200, Town and Country, Grand Caravan, and Jeep Compass and Patriot includes
$500 fi nance rebate, must fi nance through Chrysler Capital* *Financing to qualifi ed buyers only.Ram 2500 include Commercial bonus and upfi t rebate must be business or farmer.
Town and Country and Caravan sale price includes $1,000 Chrylser product owner loyalty Tax, title, license extra. No doc fee charged.
SAVE$3,884
REAR DVD
2015 Chrysler Town & Country TouringHeated leather, back up cam, remote start
MSRP $32,590 Sale Price* $28,706
2015 Chrysler 200 LimitedFull power, 9-spd. auto. trans, backup camera
MSRP $25,375 Sale Price* $21,552
36 MPG Highway
2015 RAM 1500 4x4Quad Cab Express Pkg.5.7 V8 Hemi, Power Windows & Locks
MSRP $38,850 Sale Price* $32,950
SAVE$5,900
2015 Ram 1500 4x4Crew Cab Big Horn
3.0 V6 Turbo Eco Diesel, Heated seats, Full PowerMSRP $49,360 Sale Price* $42,984
2015 Ram 1500 4x4Quad Cab Big Horn
3.6 V6, Full power, back up cameraMSRP $39,596 Sale Price* $33,998
SAVE$6,376
2015 Jeep Grand CherokeeLimited 4x4
Navigation, heated leather seats, backup cameraMSRP $41,135 Sale Price* $39,252
*On most models
2015 Jeep Patriot 4x4 Latitude Package
Heat seats, remote startMSRP $25,290 Sale Price* $21,858
SAVE$3,432
2015 Jeep CompassLatitude 4x4
Heated seats, remote startMSRP $26,085 Sale Price* $22,921
2015 Jeep Cherokee 4x4Latitude Package9-spd. trans., Backup camera
MSRP $27,690 Sale Price* $25,817
28 MPG Highway
27 MPG Highway
SAVE$3,823
SAVE$3,164 SAVE$1,873
Recent College Graduates
$500 BONUS
SAVE$5,598
23 MPG Highway
Stop out & see the new 2015 Models!
Tri-State Hay AuctionsUnited Cooperative Association
8th Ave. NW, Waukon, IAFor More Info or to Consign Call 563-568-4722
EVERY FRIDAY 12:30 PMSELLING ALL CLASSES OF HAY & STRAW
Sale Conducted by Frank Lonning Auction Service
Thank you for your support!Hats Off to
Our Beef & Dairy
Farmers!Thank you for your support!Hats Off to
Pioneer Dairyman Award...Virgil and Darlena Herman.
Outstanding Woman in Agriculture Award ...Michelle Byrnes was honored with the Outstanding Woman in Agriculture Award by the Ehrhardt family in memory of Sandra Ehrhardt. Pictured above, left to right, are Melissa (Ehrhardt) Wedo,
Monica (Ehrhardt) Enyart, Michelle Byrnes, Samantha (Ehrhardt) Wagner and Mark Ehrhardt.
Dairy Promotion Award ...Johanningmeier Dairy, represented above, left to right, by Koal and Ann Deering,
Steve and Jane Johanningmeier, and Lori and Mike Johanningmeier.
2015 Dairy Banquet Awards
Feed: 563-568-4472Agronomy/Fuel:
563-568-3909Waukon, IA
We are commi ed to being your partner for 2015
(And b ond).
Thank you to our area Beef & Dairy Families for your hard work.
www.waukonfeedranch.com
(And b ond).
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 26 JUNE 10, 2015
www.HammellEquipment.com
Hammell Equipment and Kuhn Knight
Invest in Quality!
Meeting the mixing and spreading needs of area beef and dairy producers!
e Allamakee County Dairy Promotion Board would like to thank everyone who attended the annual Dairy Banquet. Congratulations to all of
our Allamakee County Dairy Award winners.Your hard work and dedication to the dairy
industry is greatly appreciated. ank you, Shelby Bodley, our 2014 Allamakee
County Dairy Princess, for a wonderful year. Congratulations and good luck to Katie Kerndt,
our 2015 Allamakee County Dairy Princess, and to Emily Miller and Anna Weighner, our 2015 Princess Alternates. We look forward to another great year!A special thank you to WW Homestead Dairy for
managing the machine rentals. We appreciate your support of our activities and events throughout the year.
e Allamakee County Dairy Prom ion BoardIf anyone would like to rent the shake or soft serve ice cream machine, please contact WW Homestead Dairy.
Dairy Scholarship winners ...
Left to right: Katie Kerndt, Shelby Bodley,
Shelby Troendle.
Outstanding Young Dairy Family...
Kevin and Bobbi Baxter with their children, Trudy and Wyatt.
2015 Dairy Banquet Awards
Ice Cream Parlor & Retail Store
Like us!850 Rossville Rd., Waukon, IA 563.568.4950
www.wwhomesteaddairy.com
Malts Shakes Floats Ice Cream Sundaes Cheese Curds Milk Butter Block Cheddar Cheese
Thank You to all Northeast Iowa Beef & Dairy Farmers!Summer Hours
Mon. - Fri. 8 AM-9 PMSat. 9 AM-9 PM
Sun. Noon-9 PM
BIEBER INSURANCE & REAL ESTATE
(563) 568-3435 James H. Bieber, Insurance Agent/Real Estate BrokerFARM, HOME, COMMERCIAL, LIFE & HEALTH
Thank You Beef & Dairy Farmers!
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 27
BEEF & DAIRYHanson Hilltop Farms is a family affair welldiversi ed to help overcome most any challengeby Kelli Boylenfreelance writer
Knowing that diversity can often be the key to success for many farms, the Hanson family is involved with more than one aspect of agriculture. Brothers Al and John Hanson and their parents, Bob and Gloria, farm together at Hanson Hilltop, LLC in rural Waukon.
Ever since Bobs parents purchased the farm in the early 1940s there have been dairy cattle on the farm. Bob still recalls when they rst started milking cows with milking machines instead of by hand after he graduated from high school in 1967.
Bob was raised on the farm, and then he and Gloria raised their four children there. In addition to their two sons, they raised two daughters, Lynn (Johnson) and Kari (Gibbs).
After high school John attended classes at Northeast
BACON CONCRETE & EXCAVATING L.L.C.
CORY BACON - OWNER 370 N. Bancroft, Postville, IA563-864-7602 [email protected]
THANK YOUArea Beef and Dairy
Producers!
Iowa Community College in Calmar for two years. Al worked the wheat harvest from Texas to Canada and then started working at another farm near Waukon. The Hansons sold the milking herd and didnt milk cows for a period of two years while the boys were otherwise involved, but then John decided to return home to farm in 2002.
Those two years not milking cows about drove me crazy, says Al, recalling how by 3:00 in the afternoon he would be done with chores and wondering what to do with himself. It was during this time they started building up their beef herd.
When they had sold the dairy herd they had retained their young stock and were selling the bred heifers as they approached calving age. John was able to start up the milking herd with 65 of those animals
Hanson...Continued on page 28
Hanson Hilltop Farms is diversi ed in many different aspects of agriculture but remains a family-based operation. Pictured above, left to right, are Al, Gloria, John and Bob Hanson. Bob was rst
raised on the farm purchased by his parents, and he and Gloria raised all four of their children there, including daughters Lynn (Johnson) and Kari (Gibbs). Photo by Kelli Boylen.
B & K Heating & Plumbing Inc.
(563) 864-3332Owners: Brian Bohr & Ken Klepper
285 E. Greene St.Postville, IA
We Salute Th e Beef And Dairy Industry
www.waukonstatebank.com
Over 90 Years of Ag Lending Experience.
Thank You Beef & Dairy Farmers!
Wauk State Bank is H e f Y !
-
BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 28 JUNE 10, 2015
SZABO CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.Over 40 years of soil
conservation and excavation experience.
563-864-7515 152 S. West St., Postville, IA JAMIE SMITH, MANAGER
Excavating (All Types)
Demolition Water & Sewer
Terraces Waterways Ponds
AICAutomation Dealer
PREMIER DAIRY SERVICEEquipment Install & Repair
Al Brink 563-379-1919Waukon, IA
StallsCow Dawg
Gates
Hanson...Continued from page 27as they freshened.
When he started to milk again he removed old stanchions from the barn and was milking with a tie-stall set-up. In 2005 they retro- tted a parlor into their existing barn and built a freestall barn to house the cows. This type of set-up is much better for cow comfort. The cows have sand bedding, large fans and sprinklers to keep them cool, and the sides of the barn have curtains which
open and close depending upon the temperature to make sure the cows are always at an optimal temperature.
In 2012 the Hansons added another freestall barn and expanded the size of the milking parlor from a double-8 to a double-10. This let us milk more cows in the same amount of time, says John. The parlor is a para-bone style, which means the cows stand at a 60-degree angle and are
milked from between their hind legs. They currently milk about 170 cows.
About the time they constructed the parlor, Al made the decision to return to the home farm full time as well. He tried working at another farm and helping on the family farm, but both working both places was just too much.
John now handles the dairy herd and Al handles the crops and beef operation. Bob does whatever needs to be done and he works part time at Equity Livestock Sale barn. Gloria handles all the calf care and she works the reception area at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon.
Mom takes care of the baby calves; they are her babies, says Al. They get a very high quality of care, its like they are family members too.
Lynn lives nearby and still helps out whenever she can. Lynns and Karis daughters, Brittany Johnson and Allison Gibbs, work on the farm and help milk. Both girls are pursuing further education in agriculture. Bob says Allison is attending Iowa State University and although he was hoping she would come work on the farm again for the summer, he didnt ask her because he
Hanson...Continued on page 30
Feeding time at Hanson Hilltop Farms. The Hansons grow their own corn, alfalfa and oats for use on the farm, but do purchase some hay for their beef herd when needed. Photo by Kelli Boylen.
RESTAURANT OPEN AT 11AM - 7 DAYS A WEEK2 miles West of Lansing on Hwy. 9 2609 Main Street 563-538-4956
www.redbarnresortandcampground.com
We Salute Our Area Dairy & Beef Producers
Stop In & Try Our Dairy & Beef Products! 100% Angus Burgers
Philly Steak Sandwich or Wrap Ice Cream Cones Shakes Malts
Other menu items also available.Camping, Restaurant, Large Playground, Arcade Games, 5 Flat Screen TVs, NFL Network, Pool Table, Mini Golf, Trout Stream
563-586-2791 563-880-0532
WE PROUDLY SUPPORT OUR AREA DAIRY AND BEEF PRODUCERS!
17 First St. NW, Waukon, IA 563-568-6378 [email protected] PRINTING
Proud supporter of area beef and dairy farmers!
Thank you for your patronage.
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 29
BEEF & DAIRY
See One Of Our
Ag Lenders Today For
A Variety Of Beginning
Farmer Loans! Clem Schulte Greg Rea
Lansing, IA (563) 538-4231
www.kerndtbrothers.com
LXN Custom ServicesLee Ellickson
1103 Park Road Waukon, IA 52172563-568-3854 563-568-7960
For all your in-line wrapping needs call
WE ARE PROUD TO SALUTE THE BEEF & DAIRY PRODUCERS!
State Farm Fire and Casualty Company Bloomington, IL
Protect your farm like you protect your family
P098092
For insurance protection on your home, outbuildings, equipment and livestock, contact me today. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
Scott Houg, Agent111 Rossville RoadWaukon, IA 52172Bus: 563-568-3046
Hanson...Continued on page 30
Hans Hillt F ms
From family members to beyond, Hanson
Hilltop Farms bene ts from many helping
hands in its day-to-day operations. Pictured at left, Allison Gibbs,
granddaughter of Bob and Gloria Hanson, has
returned for another summer after a year at Iowa State University. Pictured at right in the
foreground, high school neighbor Drew Adam has been a welcome
addition to the Hanson Hilltop Farms staff.
Photos by Kelli Boylen.
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BEEF & DAIRYPAGE 30 JUNE 10, 2015
563-544-4214 or 1-888-689-1898www.newalbinsavingsbank.com118 Main St. NE, New Albin, IA
Wed like to thank our local Beef & Dairy Farmers for
producing high quality beef and dairy products!
Bills TractorsQUALITY USED EQUIPMENT
563-419-4215 Lansing, IA [email protected]
THANK YOU Beef & Dairy Producers!
06 AGBAG G6070 9, split conveyor, very clean
11 Schuler HF255 feeder wagon, scale, like new
JD 4450 CAH, quad, triple hyd., 3500 act. hrs.!
ANY LARGE 1-TOPPING PIZZA ONLY $10
didnt want her to think she was obligated to. He was very happy when she approached them and asked if she could.
Its de nitely a family affair, one way or another, says Al.
Other day-to-day workers on their farm include Drew Adam, a neighboring high schooler who they say will need to be replaced with two to three workers to do all that he does
when he does someday leave, and Pablo Rivera, who they say is excellent at caring for the dairy and beef cows. He pays very close attention to the cattle, is very caring toward them and he is able to keep them calm, Al says. Dave Miller also works on the farm seasonally.
When Al rst came back to Hanson Hilltop he started working on increasing the beef
herd from the 60 or so head they had then. They now run about 160 animals in the beef herd, which is about 80 percent Angus. They plan so that heifers having calves for the rst time start calving about March 1, and the rest of the herd calves from about the end of March until the end of June. They sell the calves in the fall as they are weaned in the fall, and they purchase replacement heifers rather than raising their own. The beef cows are pastured in the summer months.
Al also runs a custom corn chopping business and has several people who help him with that.
Hansons, like many other Allamakee County farmers who care for the land, employ conservation methods such as contour stripping and crop rotation to prevent erosion. They own 400 acres of crop land and rent an additional 200, growing corn, alfalfa and oats that they need on their farm. Hansons do purchase some hay for their beef herd when needed. They rent pasture land for the beef herd and dairy heifers.
Over the years, the Hansons have been able to add to the
Hanson...Continued from page 28
The Hanson family milks about 170 cows in its Hanson Hilltop Farms family-based operation. In addition to the dairy production, the Hansons also raise a beef herd of about 160 cows, wanting to
diversify its operation as much as possible. Photo by Kelli Boylen.
Hanson...Continued on page 31
www.strongrockandgravel.com
STRONG ROCK & GRAVEL QUARRY
OUR MOTTO IS ROCK SOLID: HONESTY
Gravel, Rip Rap, Boulders, Decorative Stone, Slabs
563-880-81501958 Dry Ridge Drive, Lansing, IA
Consult Ron for your rock needs & challenges, 30+ years experience
Proud Supporter Of Our Area Beef & Dairy Farmers!
WE PROVIDE TRUCKING SERVICE
We Salute All of Our Dairy Farmers!
LANGS DAIRY EQUIPMENT2337 Millennium Rd., Decorah, IA 52101
Phone 563-382-8722 Fax 563-382-3585www.langsdairy.com
Thank you De-Su Holsteins and Hanson Hilltop Farms for your business!
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BEEF & DAIRYJUNE 10, 2015 PAGE 31
BEEF & DAIRY
101 West St., Waukon, IA Ph. 563-568-2485
101 West St., Waukon, IA Ph. 563-568-2485
Heating & Air ConditioningHeating & Air Conditioning
Thank You Area Beef & Dairy Producers!
Palmer Abstract & Realty 19 1st Ave., NW, Waukon, IA 52172
(563) 568-3488
Providing title services for Allamakee County
since 1925
Commercial Agricultural
Residential
300 Tenth St. NE, Independence, IA 319-334-7193Ludlow Division 563-419-0633
Celebrating National Dairy Month
Great Place to Market Your Milk
In Continuous
Operation For
Over 100 Years
!
Quality People Making Quality Products!LeRoy Messler, Field Representative
Ludlow Division 563-419-0633Joe Zuercher, Milk Hauler 563-380-3394,
Chris Zuercher, Milk Hauler 563-920-8480,